If you're hoping to obtain your green card and become a legal U.S. resident, you may already know that you'll be required to undergo a medical examination before your green card is issued. For many, the prospect of a health exam—especially one whose outcome could affect your entry to the U.S.—can be nerve-wracking. Fortunately, for the vast majority of immigrants, this exam is quick, simple, and routine. Read on to learn more about the purpose and procedure of the immigration medical exam, as well as some tips and tricks on how you can prepare for your own exam.
Why is an immigration medical exam necessary?
Since the earliest days of U.S. immigration, the government has cautioned against the admission of immigrants who are suffering from communicable diseases or who run the risk of being a "public charge" due to illness or disability. While having a communicable disease or a chronic disability doesn't necessarily exempt someone from admission to the U.S. or prevent them from receiving a green card, if someone is suffering from a potentially dangerous condition that is uncommon in the U.S. (like measles, rubella, or tuberculosis), the government may need to take steps to reduce the risk that this ailment will be transmitted to others.
And for those who haven't yet been vaccinated against these illnesses or who are in need of a booster, getting these vaccines taken care of during the immigration medical exam can be inexpensive and convenient.
How should you prepare for your examination?
Before your exam appointment, you'll want to gather some important documents like any vaccination records, a valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license or passport), your medical insurance card, any form of payment, and a copy of Form I-693 (the "Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record"). Having these documents on hand will prevent you from having to return to the office or cancel your appointment.
During the examination, your physician will test for various communicable diseases, including measles, tuberculosis, and syphilis. The TB test will require you to return to the doctor's office within a few days so that the doctor can examine the injection site for any swelling or irritation (which can indicate a positive result). During the examination, your physician will also carefully review your medical records to ensure you've received all applicable vaccinations; if you haven't, you may be vaccinated that day or instructed to visit your primary care physician for a booster shot.